Jonathan David awaiting United approach before Lille release

INEOS have a pivotal transfer window ahead. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Jonathan David, who’s long been considered a Manchester United target, is awaiting approaches after playing his final game for Lille.

The forward is now in the last three weeks of his contract with the club before he is officially released on June 30, although his suitors have been free to engage in negotiations over a potential transfer since January.

A deal is yet to come to fruition between David and any of the sides he’s been linked with. As for United’s interest, it was last claimed in March that the Reds had held talks over a potential swoop for the wantaway striker.

How the Reds are faring in their centre-forward search

Unfortunately for David, United are looking elsewhere as things stand.

Fans were well aware heading into the window that Liam Delap had been deemed their first-choice No.9 to lead Ruben Amorim’s line next season — until he snubbed the 20-time champions and signed for Chelsea instead. The opportunity to play Champions League football with the Blues is thought to have swayed his decision.

INEOS chiefs have since had to go back to the drawing board in search of alternatives, with recent reports suggesting ex-Amorim protegee Viktor Gyokeres would be willing to join despite the fact that they failed to qualify for the UCL.

Should nothing materialise with Gyokeres, United may just turn to David as a more attainable coup.

Season Appearances Goals Assists 24/25 49 25 12 23/24 47 26 9 22/23 40 26 4 21/22 48 19 0 20/21 48 13 5

*David in all competitions for Lille since he joined, as per Transfermarkt

David waiting on calls from three dream clubs

According to Corriere dello Sport (as relayed by Sport Witness), the 25-year-old views United, Barcelona or Paris Saint-Germain as his ideal destinations before the window closes, with the Premier League said to be his preferred next step after five years in Ligue 1.

Napoli were previously in pursuit of David’s services, but put a pin in their interest when Simone Inzaghi departed for Al-Hilal, while Juventus are also mulling over a move in the coming weeks.

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